Caprese Stuffed Chicken Recipe

If you are craving a dish that brings vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and a touch of elegance to your dinner table, then you absolutely must try this Caprese Stuffed Chicken. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with mouthwatering layers of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all enhanced by a tangy marinade and a luscious balsamic glaze. Every bite bursts with the classic Italian Caprese salad flavors, transformed into a hearty and satisfying main course that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Trust me, once you make this Caprese Stuffed Chicken, it will quickly become one of your go-to weeknight meals or impressive dinner party showstoppers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Caprese Stuffed Chicken lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, from the rich olive oil enhancing moisture and flavor, to the fresh basil leaves adding fragrant herbal notes. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this colorful masterpiece.

• Olive oil (1/3 cup): The base of the marinade, it keeps the chicken juicy and adds subtle fruitiness.
• Balsamic vinegar (1/4 cup plus more for drizzling): Adds a sweet and tangy depth that balances the richness of the cheese and chicken.
• Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons): Offers a gentle zing that elevates the marinade’s complexity.
• Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): A fragrant blend that complements the Caprese flavors perfectly.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a savory punch and aromatic warmth.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and earthiness.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4, about 6-8 ounces each): The star protein that’s tender and perfect for stuffing.
• Roma tomatoes (2 medium, sliced into half-moons): Juicy, vibrant, and slightly sweet, these bring freshness to every bite.
• Fresh mozzarella (8 ounces, sliced thin and cut into half-moons): Melts beautifully, providing a creamy, mild texture.
• Large basil leaves (1 cup, halved with extras for garnish): Infuses a bright, herbal aroma and flavor, essential to the Caprese inspiration.
• Balsamic glaze (optional, for garnish): Adds a glossy finish and a punch of sweetness to jazz up the presentation.

How to Make Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a vibrant marinade. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring every piece is well coated. Let the chicken soak up these flavors in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or up to 24 hours if you have the time – this step makes the chicken incredibly flavorful and tender.

Step 2: Prepare for Stuffing

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to make cleanup a breeze. Next, place each chicken breast flat on a cutting board and make four deep crosswise cuts about half an inch apart, being careful not to slice all the way through. A handy trick is to place chopsticks on either side of the chicken to prevent cutting fully through the meat.

Step 3: Stuff with Caprese Goodness

Now comes the fun part! Carefully tuck slices of tomato, mozzarella, and halved basil leaves into each of those cuts, layering the ingredients so that every bite will have that signature Caprese combination of fresh, creamy, and aromatic flavors.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts on your prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted at the thickest part of the chicken reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The mozzarella will melt into the cavities, and the chicken will be perfectly cooked and juicy.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for about five minutes; this helps all the juices redistribute. Just before serving, drizzle some balsamic glaze over top and sprinkle with additional chopped basil for a beautiful, gourmet finish that tastes as good as it looks.

How to Serve Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Garnishes

To heighten the experience, fresh basil leaves scattered on top bring bursts of herbal fragrance. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a glossy elegance and a slight sweetness that complements the savory chicken and creamy mozzarella perfectly. If you love a little kick, feel free to sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for an added zing.

Side Dishes

Caprese Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t overshadow its flavors. Think buttery garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Even a drizzle of pesto or a serving of buttery polenta makes for an excellent accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate this dish with style by serving each breast next to colorful heirloom tomato slices and fresh basil sprigs. For a rustic yet refined touch, place the chicken on a wooden serving board and garnish generously. Alternatively, slice the chicken crosswise for a striking presentation that showcases the vibrant filling inside each piece – perfect for impressing guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them promptly in an airtight container and refrigerate. Caprese Stuffed Chicken stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it a great option for next-day meals or packed lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, though it’s best to do so before baking to preserve freshness. Marinate and stuff the chicken, then wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. Cooked leftovers can also be frozen for up to a month but may lose some texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350-degree oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep the mozzarella from becoming rubbery and the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella is key to the classic Caprese texture and flavor, but if needed, you can substitute with provolone or mild goat cheese for a bit of a twist. Just keep the cheese fresh and not too aged for the best melty texture.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Fresh basil is essential to capture the authentic Caprese taste, but if you don’t have any, fresh oregano or parsley can be a stand-in in a pinch. Dried herbs won’t provide the same fresh brightness, so try to use fresh leaves whenever possible.

Can I grill the Caprese Stuffed Chicken?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully. Use a grill basket or foil to keep the fillings intact, and cook over medium heat. Just watch closely so the cheese doesn’t leak out before the chicken is cooked through.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. The chicken can be marinated and stuffed a day ahead, then baked when you’re ready. It reheats well for lunches or quick dinners and still tastes fresh and satisfying.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part. This ensures it’s safe to eat while staying juicy and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Caprese Stuffed Chicken recipe is such a joy to make and eat. It’s bright, fresh, and bursting with beloved Italian flavors that feel special but are incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, I can’t recommend it enough – it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try, and savor the happy flavors of summer any time of year.

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